What to Consider When Buying a UV Sanitizing Lamp
To paraphrase Shakespeare, “To UV or not to UV? That is the question.”
Okay, it actually turns out that the answer to that question is kind of a no-brainer. When it comes to getting rid of germs, UV light is the way to go.
But with UV light technology and sterilization devices on the rise, and more and more companies offering UV disinfecting lamps, it can be hard to know where to turn. Luckily, we’re here to make the decision a little easier on you.
We’ve gathered up all the need-to-know information regarding what to look for and keep in mind when spending your hard-earned moolah on a UV lamp. (That’s the first time I’ve ever used the word “moolah” in my life…and hopefully the last.)
How Do UV Lamps Work (and Are They Actually Effective)?
Yes, UV lamps do work! They can be extremely effective when used properly.
UV disinfecting lamps employ UV radiation, which is used to kill bacteria and germs. According to the FDA’s official website, “UVC radiation is a known disinfectant for air, water, and nonporous surfaces. UVC radiation has effectively been used for decades to reduce the spread of bacteria, such as tuberculosis. For this reason, UVC lamps are often called ‘germicidal’ lamps.”
The site further explains that when directly exposed to UV light, many viruses are totally eliminated. Because of their power to eliminate the spread of germs, they are a great way to keep your home germ- and virus-free.
Where Do I Put My UV Lamp?
Knowing where to put your UV lamp is essential, as improper usage can lead to sight impairment and negative skin reactions.
Because of the dangers of direct UV light exposure to skin and sight (especially the higher the wavelength), it’s best to install your UV light or lamp in your HVAC system. Your lamp should come with instructions regarding its installation, and those instructions should be followed to the letter. For additional help, you can even have a professional install your UV lamp.
Why Do I Need a UV Lamp?
During a pandemic, that answer seems fairly simple: UV lamps will keep your home safe from all kinds of nasty stuff that’s floating around. But let’s dive a little deeper.
UV light kills germs on surfaces and in the air, so if you have a UV lamp installed in your HVAC system, it will kill germs that either grow inside or get sucked into the HVAC system (which, in turn, spread to the whole house).
As anyone who owns a PhoneSoap knows, UV light is an amazing way to zap viruses or bacteria of any kind, and UV lamps in your home can do the same thing — but you’ll need to make sure that the materials in your HVAC system can stand being exposed to the UV light’s heat. Make sure to check with your UV lamp’s company or to talk with professional installers about your lamp’s specific credentials.
For more information on what to consider when purchasing a UV lamp for your home, check out this article from Waveform Lighting about things to consider before purchasing a UV sterilization device for your home.
With the world being so crazy and, frankly, germy, knowing that your home has the additional protection of a UV lamp just may bring you the peace of mind you need — and we hope this has helped to make your decision a little easier.
